The aim of this study was to assess the systemic use of boric acid, local use of rhBMP-2, and the combination of systemic boric acid and local rhBMP-2 for their effect on osteoblast activity and osteocalcin (OCN) expression in maxillary extraction socket in Wistar rats. The rats were divided into Control group (C), boric acid (BA) group, rhBMP-2 group and BA + rhBMP-2 group. After the extraction of first maxillary molar, BA was given at the dose of 50 mg/kg/ day. A sterile sponge was used to locally deliver rhBMP-2 at a nominal dose of 0.25 µg per sponge. The animals were assessed on Days 10 and 20. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test were used for data analysis. Osteoblast numbers and OCN expression were significantly affected by treatment, time, and treatment × time interaction. Systemic boric acid enhanced the osteogenic response associated with local rhBMP-2 during extraction socket healing. Combined treatment produced the greatest osteoblast activity and OCN expression, supporting boric acid as a potential systemic adjunct to rhBMP-2-mediated alveolar bone regeneration.
